If you are not sure what kind of power steering fluid for BMW you should use, this article will help explain terms like ATF and CHF and give you a few good options that you should consider buying. Read on to know more!
There is no single power steering fluid that suits every BMW model. In other words, the power steering fluid that is most suitable for your BMW automobile or bike might not be the best for a BMW model that was manufactured years before yours.
Thus, you must get some information about topics like the purpose of power steering fluid, how it affects your vehicle, the best kind of power steering fluid available in the market, what would suit your vehicle, and what to look for when deciding the fluid for your BMW, etc.
In this article, we have tried to throw some light on the best power steering fluid for BMW while explaining their functions and other essential things.
If you are looking for some suggestions regarding the best-suited power steering fluid for your BMW, you have come to the right place. Now, all you have to do is scroll down, read on, and learn about the power steering fluids best for BMW!
All You Need To Know About Power Steering Fluid for BMWs
What is Power Steering Fluid?
The power steering fluid is used for lubricating the components of the steering system as well as applying pressure on the tires to help steer.
This helps in the smooth running of your vehicle. It is a hydraulic fluid whose primary purpose is to reduce the time and effort required to turn the wheels of a vehicle.
The lubricating fluid helps prevent corrosion and suppresses foaming in the gear and steering pump, ensuring the vehicle’s optimum working.
You might also like to read: What Does Power Steering Fluid Smell Like? 5 Ways To Know If Your PS Fluid is Leaking
What Type of Power Steering Fluid for BMW Should You Use – ATF or CHF?
Many BMW owners remain confused – about whether they should go for Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or choose Central Hydraulic Fluid (CHF) as the steering fluid for BMW!
BMW uses ATF fluid to clear the confusion once and for all because it works better on its steering than CHF. ATF ensures longevity, durability, and better performance as compared to CHF.
Also, it has the ability for high sustenance amid a harsh environment, and it also has a viscosity that is kind of perfect for vehicles like BMW.
So, there is your answer but remember that you can also use CHF in place of ATF if there is a need. Thus, they are both quite good in their place and can be used as alternatives for each other.
Also read: BMW Mineral White vs Alpine White – Which One Should You Go For?
What should you look for in a power steering fluid for your BMW?
Now that you know about steering fluid, we can move on to the main topic: what kind of power steering fluid is suitable for BMW?
Hands down, the best power steering fluid for BMW is Pentosin CHF-11S, which is usually employed in BMW vehicles.
However, there are many other types of power steering fluid for BMW that you can try, but make sure that they have the following features to support the steering system’s components in the best way!
- Assist the driver by exerting force from the steering wheel to the steering gear
- Act as a medium through which the steering fluid can be transmitted across different areas of the vehicle (for good circulation)
- Improves the performance of the steering system of BMW
- Efficiently safeguards the steering system of BMW.
- It gives a rapid response to every gear change.
You might also like to read: What Can You Use For Power Steering Fluid? 4 Replacements That You Can Easily Find
What Power Steering Fluid for BMW Should You Pick? The 3 Best Choices
We have prepared a small list of the best power steering fluid for BMW, and you can check them out below:
#1. Pentosin CHF-11S
Probably the most used and thus, most recommended power steering fluid for BMWs is Pentosion CHF-11S. The fluid has been in use since the manufacture of the model in the 1990s and is widely available. Pentosin CHF-11S is used explicitly for BMWs since it satisfies OEM specifications.
#2. Dexron VI
If you cannot get your hands on Pentosin CHF-11S, you can find its equivalent known as Dexron VI to do the job. It is less expensive than Pentosin and comprises synthetic oils, which are great for the movement of components of the steering system.
Also read: What Is Service Variable Effort Steering?
#3. BMW Power Steering Hydraulic System Fluid (Chf-11s)
This fluid is created especially for BMW automobiles as well as motorbikes. It has higher longevity and thermal stability that can work wonders for your vehicle.
Its anti-freeze formula ensures complete corrosion prevention, so your BMW runs smooth like butter on the road. Try it for yourself, and you will know what we mean!
You might also like to read: What Happens If You Overfill Your Power Steering Fluid? 3 Things You Need To Take Care Of
Frequently Asked Questions About BMW Power Steering Fluids
#1. What kind of power steering fluid does a BMW use?
Generally, Pentosin CHF-11S is the power steering fluid used in a BMW. However, you can also go for ATH fluids since they make a great substitute or alternative for the vehicle.
Apart from this, Dromedary Powder, Prestone Power, Valvoline, Lucas Oil, etc., are some fluids that can also be used in BMWs.
#2. Why does BMW use ATF for power steering?
Most BMW owners prefer Automatic Transmission Fluid over other power steering fluids because they last longer and take the load during the harsh environment.
There are no prizes for guessing that ATF power steering fluid performs better than CHF in terms of smoothness, application, and performance.
However, CHF has features that work well on BMW, and thus, both can be used for running the vehicle and taking turns. However, if the owner’s manual explicitly says ATF, always use the recommended fluid for your car.
#3. Can I use Prestone power steering fluid in my BMW?
Yes, you may use PRestone Power steering fluid in my BMW, but we suggest you use it as a substitute or alternative. Always choose Pentosin CHF-11S or Dexron VI, or BMW Power Steering Hydraulic Fluid Ch-11s for your BMW.
#4. Does the brand and type of power steering fluid matter?
Yes, it matters what power steering fluid you use for your automobile or motorbike since it affects the performance and longevity of the steering system.
If you use an incompatible steering power fluid for the vehicle, it will create corrosion amongst the steering system components and negatively affect your vehicle’s working. Thus, using the fluid that works best for your BMW is essential and helps the steering run smoothly.
You might also like to read: What Color Is Power Steering Fluid Supposed To Be?
A Few Final Words
Now that you know the best power steering fluid for your vehicle, it will be easier for you to choose just one of the vast options available.
We would recommend you get a consultation with a good mechanic or an expert to guide you regarding the power fluid that will be best suited for your BMW.
Thank you for reading the article, we hope we got all the details in one place for you. If you still have doubts, questions or comments please do not hesitate to use the little white box at the bottom of this page!
